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Layers in a full, formal dress

My sister in law is having me make her wedding dress, it is going to be convertible so there will be a long over skirt that can be removed to reveal a knee length dress for the reception. She wants it to be full but not super poofy. I know I will need to do an opaque layer and a crinoline as well as some chiffon…but how many layers are traditionally in a ball gown style skirt?

You would have a lining, the crin, more lining, the dress fabric and any other layers of chiffon or outer decorative layers. I used to work for David’s bridal tailoring and some dresses had attached underskirts but I never felt they were full enough and many times a second underskirt was needed. I refer separating the layers fr ease of wear. Historically, gowns were built up of many skirts and layers that were separate pieces.

Decorative Ornaments Using Walnut Shells

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